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It obviously depends on the size of the kitchen but a straightforward kitchen installation usually takes between one and two weeks. Larger renovations, bespoke cabinetry, natural stone worktops and significant plumbing or electrical alterations can extend the project but this usually by a huge amount. Again, it depends on the work involved but typically electrical and plumbing work can happen at the same time.
The installation programme depends on far more than the number of cabinets. A kitchen fitter must coordinate several trades, allow time for preparation and schedule each stage in the correct order.
A Typical Kitchen Installation Timeline
Removing the Existing Kitchen: Typically 1 Day
The fitter will disconnect appliances, remove cabinets and take out old worktops. This stage may uncover damaged plaster, leaking pipework, unsafe wiring or uneven floors.
Ask who will remove the waste before work starts. Some quotations include disposal, while others require you to arrange a separate skip or collection.
Plumbing, Electrics and Preparation: 1 to 4 Days
Plumbers and electricians complete the first-fix work before any plastering and the new units going in. First fix means installing or repositioning cables, sockets, water supplies, waste pipes and appliance connections.
After the plumbing and electrics, your kitchen fitter may also need to do the following. We allow for some of this as standard.
- Repair or replace plasterboard
- Plaster damaged walls
- Level the floor
- Move gas or water services
- Prepare ventilation for an extractor
- Alter lighting circuits
Older properties in Bath often have uneven walls, irregular floors and services added during previous renovations. Good preparation prevents crooked cabinets, uneven worktops and poor-fitting panels later.
Installing Cabinets: 2 to 7 Days
The fitter will assemble and position the cabinets, level each unit and secure the complete run. Bespoke kitchens can take longer because the fitter may need to scribe panels and cabinetry around uneven walls, alcoves and original features.
The fitter should check door alignment, cabinet levels and appliance clearances throughout this stage. Small errors can affect worktop measurements and the final appearance.
Worktops: 1 Day or Longer
Laminate and timber worktops can often go in during the main installation.
Quartz, granite and other natural stone worktops require a separate templating visit after the fitter has secured and levelled the cabinets. The stone supplier then manufactures the worktop before returning to install it. This process can add one or two weeks to the programme, depending on the supplier.
Your kitchen may remain without a working sink or hob during part of this period.
Electrical and Plumbing second fix: 1 to 2 Days
The final stage can include:
- Installing appliances
- Connecting the sink and taps
- Completing electrical connections
- Testing services and appliances
A careful fitter will also inspect sealant lines, cabinet alignment and finishes before handover.
What Can Delay a Kitchen Installation?
Common causes include late appliance deliveries, damaged components, missing cabinets and worktop manufacturing times. Unplanned building work can also disrupt the schedule.
You can reduce delays by confirming the following before the start date:
- All cabinets and panels have arrived undamaged.
- Appliances match the kitchen design and cabinet sizes.
- The fitter has approved the final layout.
- Electricians, plumbers and other trades have confirmed their dates.
- The quotation assigns responsibility for waste, decorating and flooring.
How Should You Plan for the Disruption?
Expect periods without a sink, hob, oven or washing machine. Create a temporary preparation area in another room and keep a kettle, microwave and basic crockery accessible.
Speak to your kitchen fitter about the exact days when water, electricity or cooking facilities will remain unavailable. A clear programme helps you plan meals, appliance deliveries and time away from the property.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a kitchen be fitted in one week?
A fitter may complete a small, straightforward replacement kitchen within one week if the layout remains unchanged and the room needs little preparation. Building work, service alterations and stone worktops will extend the programme.
How long will I be without a kitchen sink?
Most installations leave you without a working sink for several days. Stone worktops can lengthen this period because the plumber cannot complete the final connection until the worktop and sink are in place.
Can I stay at home during a kitchen installation?
You can usually remain at home, although dust, noise and limited cooking facilities may cause disruption. Discuss access, working hours and service interruptions with the fitter before work begins.
Should the installer provide a project schedule?
A professional kitchen installer should explain the sequence of work and provide expected timings. The schedule should also identify when plumbers, electricians, worktop suppliers and decorators will attend.
How early should I book a kitchen fitter in Bath?
Book your kitchen fitter once you have confirmed the design and likely delivery date. Experienced installers may have commitments several weeks or months ahead, so early planning gives you more control over the project dates.